Get matched with top fireplace pros in Lubec, ME

Like other kinds of masonry and brickwork, a properly installed chimney should have a lifespan that extends beyond multiple generations of homeowners. But there are parts of the chimney that will need to be replaced more frequently. 

• Clay tile or cast-in-place liners should be replaced every 50 years.

• Stainless steel liners will last an average of 15–20 years.

• Mortar will require replacement every 25–30 years.

• Chimney crowns have an average lifespan of 50–75 years.

Outdoor fireplaces are extremely sturdy if constructed correctly, but they do require regular maintenance. The good news is that cleaning and checking the fireplace needs to be done just once a year. However, for safety reasons, let a professional clean the fireplace. Homeowners should expect to pay between $100 and $300 for outdoor fireplace maintenance. Any damage to the fireplace itself, however, will cost much more to repair.

You can install a range hood and use the vent to protect your kitchen cabinets from heat and steam from the stovetop. For added heat protection, homeowners can install metal heat shields to exposed sections of the cabinets. It is also essential to keep cabinet surfaces clean by removing any grease buildup that can cause a fire.

Yes, you can put a freestanding one in a corner if you’re tight on space. Because pellet stoves don’t get as hot as other types of wood stoves, there only needs to be 3 inches of clearance from the wall on each side. Placing it in a corner should not impact the ventilation—you’ll still need to follow safety precautions by not installing too close to a window. Typically, it’s 4 feet from a window or 18 inches if the stove uses an external air source for combustion. Always check the owner’s manual for specific instructions.